Smith became aware of Operation Christmas Cards when his brother-in-law, Jordan Kolaski, was deployed in Afghanistan. Smith’s mother-in-law, Patricia Yarbrough, became involved with the program and sent out 11,000 cards last year. In a two-week period, Smith sent out about 1,100 cards in 2013.

“We hope to do a lot better this year,” he said.

Smith said a few cards are available at Infliction Gallery now for those who can’t attend the June 28 event. Cards may be signed year-round at the shop, he said, but the deadline for Christmas 2014 is the end of October.

Smith called Operation Christmas Card a “worthwhile cause” and that many people in the community have seen it as such. Since hearing about the event, people have taken old Christmas cards to the shop, donated raffle and door prize items and food, and displayed fliers for the event.

“It seems like when it’s something to support the troops, people really get behind that, typically,” Smith said.

Raffle items for the event include a $100 tattoo from Infliction Gallery or a custom leather holster from Clament Custom Leather. Money raised from the raffle helps pay for shipment of the cards, Smith said.

According to Smith, those who are interested may sign a single card or an entire box of cards. Some people include a personal message, he said.